Generally, caffeine is safe in moderate amounts. It increases the metabolism and gives a boost of energy, but children and those with stomach or heart problems should avoid the stimulant. Both green and white teas contain antioxidants, which provide many health benefits. They also both contain caffeine, although in different quantities.
What Is Green Tea?
Green tea is made from the unfermented leaves of the tea plant. Once the leaves have been picked and dried, they are ready to be infused in hot water to brew tea. Black tea leaves are fermented and then dried. Because it undergoes such minimal processing, green tea retains most of the natural antioxidants present in the tea plant.
Caffeine in Green Tea
The exact amount of caffeine in a cup of tea varies depending on the strength of the brew and the size of the cup. The average cup of green tea contains about 50 milligrams of caffeine.
What Is White Tea?
White tea is made from the buds and very young leaves of the tea plant. The buds are covered in fine white hairs, which give the tea its designation as "white." Like green tea, white tea is very minimally processed and contains high levels of antioxidants. It is picked by hand, then dried and packaged for sale. Because it must be picked by hand, and can only be harvested for a few days each year when the tea plant has unopened buds, it tends to be more expensive than green tea.
Caffeine in White Tea
A cup of white tea contains significantly less caffeine than green tea, because it is harvested before the tea plant produces large amounts of caffeine. The average cup of white tea contains around 15 milligrams of caffeine.
Health Risks Associated with Caffeine
For most, caffeine is safe in moderate amounts, although some people are more sensitive to it than others. For sensitive individuals, caffeine can cause headaches, stomach upset, nervousness and irritability. It can also raise the heart rate when taken in large quantities. Over time, the body can build up a tolerance to it, and some people experience withdrawal symptoms if they do not have their normal caffeinated beverage. When taken late in the day, caffeine can interfere with a good night's sleep, which often leads to increased use the next morning.
Health Benefits of Green and White Tea
Both green and white tea contain antioxidants, which may decrease your risk of heart disease and certain types of cancer. Antioxidants attack free radicals present in the bloodstream, which cause cell decay and mutation. Unrepaired cell damage and mutation is the primary cause of cancer. By attacking the free radicals that cause these problems, antioxidants can help the body avoid developing cancerous tumors. Antioxidants also help the body avoid stiffening arteries, preventing many forms of heart disease.
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